A product of New Zealand's strongest rugby league school, St Paul's College (along with Stacey Jones). He was a Junior Kiwi for three years from 1992 to 1994, initially making a name for himself out of the Richmond club in Auckland and then for the North Harbour Seas Eagles in the Lion Red Cup. The Warriors signed him when he was still 17 and playing for Richmond. Has now reached the stage in his development - just turned 25 - where he has every chance of establishing himself as the best prop in the game. Made eight appearances as a 20-year-old in the Warriors' debut season in 1995 and was in the Western Samoa team at the World Cup that year. The following year he started a glowing Kiwi career which already numbers 18 tests and should see him finish as one of New Zealand's most-capped internationals. Has stayed with the Warriors after several clubs chased him last year and, with Stacey Jones, he's very much a key player in the Warriors' future. Needs only nine more games this year to become the second player to top 100 first grade appearances for the Warriors. Cousin of centre Nigel Vagana.